Locals Memorializing Legendary Main Line Venue The Main Point

HAVERTOWN, PA — A shuttered, legendary music venue on the Main Line is getting memorialized on the 40th anniversary of its doors closing.

The Main Point, formerly located at 874 W. Lancaster Ave., closed in 1981 after 18 years of hosting performers such as Bruce Springsteen, John Prine, Linda Ronstadt, Billy Joel, Jackson Browne, Jim Croce, Joni Mitchell, and James Taylor, among others.

Now, locals are looking to honor the space's impact on the regional music scene.

A local group of Arts lovers and "Friends of" the site, with cooperation from the property owner, are taking steps to make sure the site is not forgotten.

"The Main Point closed in 1981," said Bryn Mawr resident and campaign organizer Michael Curry. "Now, 40 years later, we are looking for at least 40 people willing to donate at least 40 dollars each to forever mark the location that had a monumental impact on a generation of performers and fans alike."

As an ardent fan who passes the former location regularly, Curry thought to reach out to Steve Bajus, of SW Bajus Ltd., the owner of the property.

Bajus became an enthusiastic supporter of the plan, which is to recognize the building’s entertainment history with an appropriate cast iron plaque to be affixed to the exterior of the building. The plaque will allow all who pass by to see where so many musical greats got their start right in Bryn Mawr

Tom Kelly, Chairman of 501c3 non-profit Kelly Music for Life is supporting the fundraising effort

"In the 1970’s I drove past The Main Point every day commuting from home to high school at Archbishop Carroll and to college at Villanova," Kelly said. "The names of coming shows posted in The Main Point windows were unknown to most of us at the time. Many went on to become superstars."

The Kelly Center for Music, Arts and Community in Havertown was inspired by The Maim Point.

"We really love giving young performers an opportunity to develop their craft on our stage, just like The Main Point," Kelly said. "Incredibly, Bonnie Raitt was only 18 when The Main Point first gave her a shot. Like The Main Point, the Kelly Center is a listening room focused on the performers."

One major backer of the project is Larry Ahearn, well-known musician, manager of Craig Bickhardt and co-owner of Trespass Music Agency, who got his business start by booking shows and also performing at The Main Point.

"My years playing and booking shows at The Main Point are some of my most cherished memories," Ahearn said. "At the time we had no idea how influential the venue would become. We just had a wonderful time hearing so many fabulous shows that I was thrilled and privileged to have a hand in. I think it is both fitting and wonderful that The Main Point will have this permanent recognition."

Members of the community can contribute to the commemoration effort by donating.

The first 40 donors who each give $40 will be included as guests at an invitation-only reception to unveil the commemorative plaque. That event will take place on stage this summer at the Kelly Center.

Those who would like to be a part of "forever remembering" The Main Point, tax deductible donations can be made to the Kelly Center via PayPal or Credit Card.

Donations via Venmo are also accepted through the @Kelly4music “Business” tab. When donating via Venmo, write “The Main Point Plaque” with your contribution.